Location and landscape
Bernkastel-Kues lies in the heart of the Middle Moselle between the Eifel and the Hunsrück. The town is set within a winding river landscape, characterised by steep vineyard slopes and the elevated Kues plateau. The mild Moselle climate and the high level of sunshine on south-facing slopes support viticulture.
Soils and viticulture
Devonian slate is the most important geological material in the Bernkastel wine-growing region. The Bernkastel Doctor lies on a steep slate hillside and is cultivated by hand. In the surrounding holiday region, five Großlagen and 76 Einzel-lagen are listed.
Grape varieties and wine style
Riesling is the town’s most important grape variety. In addition, Elbling, Rivaner, Weißburgunder, Grauburgunder, Spätburgunder and Dornfelder are grown. The wines are described as mineral and finely fruited, with comparatively low alcohol; besides dry wines, also noble-sweet Rieslings are produced.
Wine history and production
Viticulture in Bernkastel-Kues has been documented since 1228, and wine tithe in Bernkastel since 1286. The history is linked to Roman settlement and the ancient viticultural tradition along the Moselle. The Moselle wine-growing region includes legally regulated quality and Prädikat wines, which undergo a quality assessment before an official testing number is issued. At Dr. Loosen Winery, sustainable cultivation, yield reduction, selective hand-harvesting and gentle vinification are documented.
